With 5.1% of windshields being damaged and requiring replacement each year in the United States, it is important to know what to look for in an auto glass service technician. The first thing that must be stated about choosing a qualified technician may be somewhat cliché. However, it is important to remember that you do get what you pay for, and windshield replacement is highly germane to this point.
Ask Questions
When selecting an auto glass service provider, start by simply asking questions. Find out if the technician is NGA (National Glass Association) certified to be professionally competent in his line of work. Ask if the technician uses the auto manufacturer’ recommended products. Also find out if the technician has agreed to meet the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS). Above all, be sure the technician intends to provide you with sufficient information regarding all things pertinent. The technician should provide you with some dos and don’ts, such as how much time should be allowed for the bond to cure before the vehicle is safe to drive.
Any quality auto glass service provider shouldn’t hesitate to thoroughly answer any questions you may have about the process or their work in particular. Good communication is a sign of a responsible and knowledgeable technician.
Repair and Replacement
A good auto glass service specialist should also be able to clearly make known whether the windshield needs to be replaced or repaired. In general, a windshield should only be repaired if the damage is not too extensive or if distortion will not result from the repair.
Most importantly, if the windshield’s inner layer of polyvinyl butyrate has been affected in any way, the windshield should be completely replaced. This adhesive layer is the most important aspect of any vehicle’s windshield, and is what keeps the windshield from shattering into many pieces when impacted.
Installation
There are a few things you can look at to help ensure a quality installation. During the installation, make sure that you service technician is using protective gloves while handling the windshield at all times. This prevents oils and dirt from contaminating the bonded surfaces of the windshield. Similarly, the technician should thoroughly clean and prime the windshield and the application area before installation.
Although it may sound a bit excessive, make sure the windshield is perfectly centered on the vehicle. A misplaced windshield will not provide a structurally sound passenger compartment in the event of a collision or rollover. Also inspect the weather stripping to ensure it fits tightly against the vehicle’s body with no bumps, waves, or gaps. If the replacement windshield on your vehicle is not completely bonded to the vehicle, the windshield may become detached in the event of an accident, leading to even greater chance of serious injury or death.
